Technology and Real Estate share a strange overlap. Colleagues want a workplace that makes their workday more productive which implies the need for technology. They also do not want a workplace that is outdated and inefficient which implies any technology that is implemented needs to be maintained and upgraded regularly. If a workplace design is intended to last 10 years, any technology implemented on day 1 will likely need at least 2 full rounds of upgrades to remain current.
There is a reality that laptops and smartphones will almost always have better technology than whatever is installed throughout the workplace because laptops and phones receive regular updates keeping them at the forefront of capabilities. Installing general tech devices (think touch screens) leave those devices looking dated very quickly. This creates a bad impression over time with anyone who has to interact with it.
Specialist technology, on the other hand, can often seem like magic. A one-touch conferencing solution can feel incredibly impressive to users because it merges multiple solutions into a single organic outcome. Same works for smart security systems that integrate multiple devices and systems into a simple user experience. These types of solutions do not need to be upgraded as often because they solve for a use case that is closer to being time-agnostic.
Technology is becoming more and more a normal part of living within a space. “Smart” is the new prefix for everything from lightbulbs to televisions to refrigerators to conference phones. As everything becomes intelligent with built-in wifi, technology teams become obligated to manage and enhance the experience they introduce over time. Otherwise, it’s better to stick with a more traditional low-tech office that is enhanced as needed instead of through mass tools.